1999 BMW Z9 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z9 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z9. (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z9.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 BMW Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z9 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3901 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2770 mm |
